The Duneland Family YMCA, in partnership with the Women’s International Network of Utility Professionals (WiNUP) Metro Chicago Chapter, hosted the inaugural STEAM Like A Girl event at the Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus this past weekend in Chesterton, Indiana. The event was a resounding success, welcoming girls ages 8–14 from all over the Northwest Indiana Region for a day of hands-on learning and exploration.

Over the course of the day, participants engaged with seven interactive STEAM zones—chemistry, environmental science, art, renewable energy, electrolytes, weather, robotics, and technology. Each activity was designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and empower the next generation of innovators. By the end of the event, every girl left not only more knowledgeable but also motivated to continue exploring STEAM opportunities in the future. “Events like this are critical for showing young girls that they belong in science, technology, engineering, art, and math,” said Amy Curtis of Duneland Family YMCA. “It was inspiring to watch their creativity and confidence grow as they explored each zone. This is exactly the kind of impact the YMCA and strives to make in the communities we serve.” Nikki Goodson of NiSource and WiNUP representative added “As women in the utilities sector, we are committed to empowering the next generation of women in STEAM. Now more than ever, it’s essential to show young girls that they not only deserve a seat at any table—they belong there. That’s the driving mission behind the WiNUP STEM Community Outreach Committee.”

The Duneland Family YMCA and WiNUP extend their deepest gratitude to the dedicated volunteers and staff whose tireless efforts made this community event possible. A very special thank-you goes to the summer camp t-shirt and tote bag design winners whose artwork helped make the event even more memorable. This event would not have been possible without the generous support of sponsors: Herc Rentals, Hitachi Global Air Power US LLC, Keramida Inc., Make Make Art, NIPSCO, NiSource, and Once Upon A Coconut. Appreciation is also extended to volunteers from NIPSCO, NiSource, Dunes Learning Center, Hemlock and Lace Photography LLC, Healthy Jasmine, and many others who contributed their time and expertise.

The success of this first-ever STEAM Like A Girl event reflects the power of collaboration and community in inspiring future leaders. Plans are already underway to continue building on this momentum for years to come.

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About the Duneland Family YMCA

The Duneland Family YMCA is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, serving Chesterton, Indiana and its surrounding communities, federated by YMCA of the USA. Through the Duneland Family YMCA, Duneland Family YMCA Healthy Living Campus, Forchetti Family YMCA Center For Early Learning, and Out of School Learning program sites, the Y’s work is felt throughout the community. Our mission is to put Christian values into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Financial assistance is available, regardless of income, thanks to the donors and volunteers who give their time and financial support to the YMCA so generously. More information can be located at www.dunelandymca.org.

About WiNUP of Metro Chicago

Women’s International Network of Utility Professionals (WiNUP) is a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit organization under the IRA Code. Section 501(c)(6) of the IRS code provides for the exemption of business leagues – which is an association of individuals with a common business interest. WiNUP is an organization providing a link for developing and recognizing professionals involved with utility business trends, issues, products, and services. The Metro Chicago chapter is a grass roots effort led by a group of energetic, determined women based in Merrillville, Indiana. The chapter offers a variety of professional development, social and networking, and philanthropic efforts each year. Some of our more notable offerings have included a focus on continuous improvement, virtual happy hours, and donation drives for local veteran’s organizations and at-risk youth. Learn more about WiNUP at https://winup.org